Joining the Osteopathic Family

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​Congratulations on your decision to apply to osteopathic medical school!

What are the admissions committees and interviewers looking for in a prospective student?

Admission to osteopathic medical school is competitive and selective. Admissions commitees are looking for demonstrated academic excellence indicating that you have the aptitude and knowledge base to successfully complete the medical school curriculum. Just as important are the personal qualities you bring to the table.

Osteopathic medical schools are looking for students who:

are well-rounded

have participated in a variety of extracurricular activities

have good communication and interpersonal skills

come from diverse backgrounds

have a record of community service

are motivated to pursue a career in osteopathic medicine

have a record of leadership

have knowledge of osteopathic medicine

have some clinical experience

have shadowed an osteopathic physician

Who are osteopathic medical students?

Osteopathic medical schools also have a long tradition of accepting non-traditional students who may be looking at osteopathic medicine as a new career later in life. Typically, these students come from a variety of backgrounds, including administrators, business executives, attorneys, professional musicians and newspaper reporters. Many of these students have families and some are single parents. This is a testament to the caring, supportive environment found in osteopathic medical schools. These students comprise approximately 20-25 percent of our student body across the country.

Almost all students who apply to osteopathic medical school have a bachelor’s degree. There are a few exceptions for students in special programs that have prior arrangements with osteopathic medical schools. Many applicants have earned a master’s degree or doctorate in another subject area before applying to osteopathic medical school.

Prerequisites:

While requirements for prequisites vary among osteopathic medical schools, all colleges of osteopathic medicine require a minimum of: